Pomona Council members opt to grant businessman's request to sell beer, wine at service station's convenience store

After hearing from more than 20 residents, business people and others, Pomona City Council members voted Monday night to grant a businessman's request for authorization to sell beer and wine at his service station's convenience store in southern Pomona.

About two weeks ago City Council members voted to deny Thomas Kim's request. Monday night some council members changed their mind.

Council members voted 4 to 3 in favor of finding the sale of beer and wine at the business was a public convenience. Council members Freddie Rodriguez, Ginna Escobar, Debra Martin and Mayor Elliott Rothman voted in support of the finding and Council members John Nolte, Cristina Carrizosa and Paula Lantz voted in opposition.

Council members will review the establishment's performance in a year.

Among Monday night's speakers was Tom Kim, operator of the family business at 2488 Reservoir St.

Kim said he is a responsible businessman who has a spotless record operating the establishment.

"I feel that our location is prime and will make the city shine. I won't disappoint you," Kim said.